Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is negotiating a new treaty with Germany to secure priority access for British businesses, marking a strategic attempt to mend the UK’s fractured relationship with the EU post-Brexit.
Describing it as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity,” Starmer emphasised the need to “turn a corner” on Brexit and foster closer economic and security ties with Europe.
Starmer’s meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz aims to tackle barriers facing UK businesses in Germany, such as certification hurdles, complex tender processes, and compliance with local regulations. A No 10 source noted that the government is striving for preferential market access while maintaining a balanced negotiation.
The treaty discussions come at a pivotal time as Starmer seeks to reshape the UK’s economic landscape amidst a challenging budget announcement, where he hinted at higher taxes for the wealthy. He is also set to meet French President Emmanuel Macron later this week.
However, Starmer’s efforts to secure greater freedoms for UK businesses have raised questions about potential concessions, including a possible youth mobility scheme allowing young Europeans to live and work in the UK. Despite government assurances that no such scheme is planned, reports suggest the UK may offer limited access in exchange for broader economic gains.
The proposed treaty will cover market access, science, clean energy, and trade security, but will not constitute a new EU trade deal. Starmer is also pushing for a veterinary agreement with the EU to ease food export checks, aiming to improve trade flows across the Channel.
In addition to economic discussions, Starmer and Scholz are expected to collaborate on joint actions against illegal migration, including enhancing intelligence sharing to combat organised immigration crime.
As Starmer continues to rebuild ties with Europe, his diplomatic efforts in Berlin and Paris signal a commitment to positioning the UK as a cooperative partner on key issues like security and migration.
